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Padres FanFest returns to PETCO Park

Padres FanFest returns to PETCO Park

SAN DIEGO -- Fans will be giving the opportunity to catch fly balls in the outfield, pitch in the bullpen and run the bases when the Padres hold FanFest on Saturday at PETCO Park.

The Padres are expecting anywhere from 6,000 to 10,000 fans to attend the event, which is making a return after a hiatus in 2009.

Admittance to Padres FanFest is free and the gates at will open at 9 a.m. PT for season-ticket holders. The general public can enter the stadium at 10 a.m. The event ends at 5 p.m.

Parking is free in four locations: the three surface lots along Imperial Avenue (southeast side of PETCO Park) and the Padres Parkade Garage (10th Avenue at J Street).

There will be myriad events at FanFest, including appearances by current and former players, coaches and members of the front office, including several question-and-answer sessions throughout the day that will include vice chairman and CEO Jeff Moorad, team president and COO Tom Garfinkel and manager Bud Black.

Fans will have the opportunity to get autographs and tour the clubhouse. There will also be a pitching clinic with Heath Bell and a batting clinic by Tony Gwynn Jr.

Padres broadcasters Dick Enberg, Jerry Coleman, Mark Grant and Mark Neely are also scheduled to be in attendance.

Other highlights will feature various themed areas. Among these areas are a "Retro" section where alumni players will be signing autographs and a "Military Zone" featuring a rock climbing wall, military vehicles, Padres military merchandise for sale and the unveiling of the Padres throwback uniforms that the team will wear each Thursday.

There will be a "Digital Media Zone" with MLB.com where fans will have the opportunity to sign up for various Padres accounts. Beat reporter Corey Brock will be at the Digital Media Zone to answer questions about the team.

The Padres Foundation will also be holding its annual Garage Sale in the Omni Premier Club. Fans will have the opportunity to purchase game-used equipment and memorabilia with all profits benefiting the Foundation.

Concessions will be available for purchase during the FanFest as well.

Corey Brock is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.